Development of a Framework of Leadership in Academic Medicine (FLAM)

Leadership within medical academic institutions often adheres to hierarchical structures, relying on factors like seniority and context, with limited focus on leadership development. This study aims to develop a structured framework by examining the traits, aspirations, and pre-requisites of academic leaders within medical school faculties.

A cross-sectional study collected input from regular medical faculty and those in leadership roles through an online questionnaire, followed by quantitative and qualitative analyses. Data was curated, analyzed, and triangulated to establish subdomains, domains, and themes for the framework.

Among 229 respondents, 121 held formal academic leadership roles, the remaining 108 were regular medical faculty. And 92% of regular faculty cited lack of experience and training as significant barriers to effective leadership. Both groups agreed on the need for intensive leadership training, as 85% of leaders and 66% of regular faculty lacked formal academic leadership training. The concept of affiliative leadership was favored by 45% of leaders. Qualitative analysis and subtheme triangulation led to the development of the 6 Es Framework for Leadership in Academic Medicine (FLAM). This framework encompasses: ethics (accountability and role modeling), education (structured curriculum and training), envision (clear path and talent identification), engagement (structural foundation and attainable goals), empowerment (fostering passion), and encouragement (financial incentives).

This research reinforces the necessity of structured leadership development in academic medicine. The unique attributes of the 6Es FLAM have the potential to enhance leadership in this field.